Is being searched at a retail store an invasion of privacy?
Retail giant Woolworths have announced that they will begin searching their customers following the recent bomb scares in Durban. Although some have deemed it necessary, others are insistent that it invades their privacy.
Listen as KZN listeners share their views on whether or not being searched at a retail store is an invasion of privacy? or read the details under the podcast.
Over the past few weeks, Durbanites have been shaken by the number of suspicious devices found in the Morningside area, Durban CBD, malls, and Woolworths stores.
Read - KZN customers to be searched upon entry: Woolworths
To protect their customers, the retail giant has introduced security measures to help curb the sudden onslaught of bomb scares and threats. This past weekend, official communication was sent out to the public from their Head of Divisions, Kay Raidoo.
"At this stage the motive behind these incidents is unclear and the investigation is ongoing. We continue to work closely with the relevant authorities, including the South African Police Service, the Hawks’ Crimes against State unit, local and national government as well as our own investigators, who are providing input and guidance," the communication read.Read: Police to brief Portfolio Committee on Durban bomb threats
They also added that they have introduced a search process to help protect customers' safety and security before they enter their stores.
But the big question is, how do you balance the need for personal privacy with the safety and security needs of living in the world we do?
I mean, it’s not like you’re going through a machine that can see right through your clothes, it’s all about whether you are being patted down or given a quick once-over with a scanner.
We surveyed our Twitter audience to get their thoughts on whether being searched is an invasion of privacy. Of the 463 respondents, 57% said yes, 32% said no, while 11% weren't too sure what to make of it.
While I may not detest being searched, especially in the light of the bomb scares and threats, it seems that others see it as an infringement on their right to privacy.
Also read: Parcel detonated by Bomb Squad
What do you think - Is being searched at a retail store an invasion of privacy? Let me know by voting in the poll below.